Mammootty narrates Kerala football docu-series ‘Panthadikkam’ on ZEE5

Chennai: Malayalam superstar Mammootty has lent his voice to Panthadikkam, a five-episode sports documentary series on Kerala’s football culture, which will begin streaming on ZEE5 from October 1.

Described as the platform’s first Malayalam sports documentary, the series traces the sport’s journey in the state, from early club football and the golden era of the Santosh Trophy to today’s professional landscape, while capturing its traditions, rivalries and fan culture.

“Football is more than just a sport in Kerala; it is an emotion that brings people together… Panthadikkam explores this unique connection between Kerala and football, bringing alive the stories, celebrations and memories that make it so special,” Mammootty said.

Across roughly 20-minute episodes, the documentary highlights how international icons and tournaments, especially from Brazil and Argentina, have become part of everyday life in Kerala. It showcases fan rituals ranging from towering flex boards and painted autorickshaws to midnight turf screenings, passionate commentary and supporters travelling abroad to watch matches live.

Produced by Dr Sangeetha Janachandran under Stories Social, Panthadikkam is directed and scored by Nyx Lopez, with Geetartha AR as writer, Joe Christo Xavier as cinematographer and Sajeesh Swaminathan as editor. The series also features Vysakh S R, pioneering captain of India’s first National Amputee Football Team, whose story is presented as a testament to resilience and love for the game.

ZEE5 Business Head (Tamil, Telugu & Malayalam) Lloyd C Xavier said the project aims to reflect the passions and identity of the Malayali audience, calling football one of Kerala’s greatest passions alongside its cinema.

(Inputs from IANS)